Muslim groups in Gujarat launch statewide campaign against proposed UCC
Ahmedabad: Muslim organizations in Gujarat have launched a robust campaign against the BJP-ruled state govt’s push for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), describing the legislation as unconstitutional and an infringement on religious freedoms. The groups are mobilizing public opposition, urging people to reject the proposed legislation.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Minority Coordination Committee (MCC) has spearheaded the statewide movement aimed at raising awareness about the harmful consequences of the law, urging them to join the movement in defending their rights and traditions. The campaign utilizes innovative tools like a missed call service and QR code scanning, allowing residents across Gujarat to express their rejection of the law in an accessible and user-friendly manner. The MCC calls for the immediate withdrawal of the UCC, citing concerns that it would undermine religious and cultural rights.
Mujahid Nafees, spokesperson for the MCC, emphasized the strength and reach of the campaign in a recent media interview. “We are mobilizing people across Gujarat to make their voices heard. This campaign is not just about opposing a law; it’s about safeguarding our constitutional rights,” Nafees stated. During a press conference, Nafees further said that as an Indian citizen, he firmly believes in the fundamental rights provided by the Constitution of India, wherein the rights established by religion and customs have been clearly protected. “I strongly oppose any attempt to alter these, as I am fully satisfied with the family laws established by my religion and customs,” he added.
Nafees also addressed concerns regarding women’s rights, pointing out that Islamic law has long granted women property rights, unlike Hindu law, where women’s property rights were introduced much later. He argued that the UCC would only create more legal disputes, particularly in the context of property rights, without offering any meaningful solutions.
In addition to the MCC, the Gujarat Muslim Hit Rakshak Samiti has also initiated a campaign to educate and mobilize community members against the UCC, reinforcing the collective resistance to the proposed law.
Notably, the BJP-ruled Uttarakhand has already enforced the UCC, setting a precedent that many fear could be replicated across other states.
Muslim scholars and leaders across India have categorically rejected the UCC, asserting that it directly challenges Islamic laws on divorce, marriage and inheritance. They maintain that any law contradicting Shariah is unacceptable and insist that their marriage and family systems must remain governed by the Holy Quran.
